Shafaq News – Iraq’s agricultural sector has long grappled with numerous challenges. Yet, despite these hurdles, farmer Hassan Al-Moussawi has pioneered the country’s first large-scale mushroom farm in al-Diwaniya Province. His 15-year journey, driven by resilience and innovation, serves as a model for achieving local agricultural self-sufficiency in a nation heavily reliant on imported produce.
Iraq’s farming industry faces deep-rooted issues, including inefficient irrigation, soil salinity, heavy dependence on imports, and the growing impact of climate change. Desertification has further reduced rural income opportunities, while political instability and decades of conflict have disrupted agricultural activities, displaced communities, and weakened infrastructure.
The prevalence of imported agricultural goods has made it challenging for local farmers to compete, underscoring the significance of initiatives like Al-Moussawi’s farm for the sector’s sustainability.
Originally a construction contractor from the Afak district, Al-Moussawi embarked on mushroom farming in 2009 with no formal training. Over seven years, he endured repeated setbacks, refining his techniques through trial and error.
“It was a demanding journey filled with challenges, but every failure taught me something valuable. I was determined to succeed,” Al-Moussawi told Shafaq News.
